For background information, visit Understanding Union Representation at UC Merced.
What is a union?
A union is an organization that represents employees in collective bargaining with their employer. It negotiates wages, hours, and other terms and conditions of employment for a defined group of employees known as a bargaining unit.
What does it mean to be exclusively represented?
When a union becomes the exclusive representative for a bargaining unit, it negotiates on behalf of all employees in that unit – whether or not each person is a union member. The union has the sole right to bargain with UC on matters such as pay, benefits and working conditions.
How can a union become my exclusive representative?
A union may seek representation in one of two ways:
- Voluntary recognition: if a majority of employees in a proposed unit (more than 50%) sign authorization cards, UC may voluntarily recognize the union without an election.
- Election: if at least 30% of employees sign cards but there is not a majority, the Public Employment Relations Board (PERB) orders a secret-ballot election. If a majority of those voting choose representation, PERB certifies the union.
What is an authorization card?
It’s a document employees sign to show support for being represented by a union. Signing one counts as evidence of support but does not make you a union member.
Can I revoke an authorization card after signing?
Revocations are limited. PERB regulations (Cal. Code Regs., tit. 8, Section 61020) require clear written notice following specific procedures. Informal “no union” notes or conversations do not typically revoke a card.
If there’s an election, what are my ballot choices?
You’ll choose between the union listed on the ballot and “No Representation.” A simple majority of votes cast decides the outcome.
If I signed an authorization card, am I automatically a member?
No. Signing shows support for union representation but does not make you a member. Membership becomes optional after certification.
What’s the difference between being “represented” and being a “member”?
All employees in a represented unit are covered by the collective bargaining agreement (CBA).
- Represented employees receive contract benefits and union representation.
- Union members pay dues and may vote in union elections or on contract ratification, per union bylaws.
Do I have to pay union dues or fees if my job becomes represented?
No. Following the Janus v. AFSCME (2018) Supreme Court decision, union membership and dues payment are voluntary for public-sector employees, including those covered by HEERA.
If you choose to join, you authorize UC to deduct dues from your paycheck. If you do not join, you will not pay dues or fees, but you will still be represented by the union on matters covered by the collective bargaining agreement.
How are union dues established?
Each union determines its own dues and fees through its internal governance (constitution or bylaws). UC does not set or collect dues amounts.
What happens once a union is certified?
Once BERB certifies a union, UC must bargain in good faith towards a first contract. Until then, management must maintain existing wages, hours, and working conditions (“status quo”) and cannot make changes without first notifying the union.
Will I have a say in negotiations?
Each union decides how members and represented employees may provide input during bargaining. Typically, only dues-paying members vote on contract ratification.
Does UC take a position on unionization?
No. The University of California is neutral and supports employees’ rights to decide for themselves. UC’s role is to ensure employees have accurate information to make an informed choice.
Questions or Support
For questions or guidance, contact Labor Relations at laborrelations@ucmerced.edu.
Resources
- Collective Bargaining Agreements. Use the Bargaining Unit Matrix to view the full terms and conditions of your union contract.
- UCOP provides a helpful set of Frequently Asked Questions about union representation at UC. The FAQs explain bargaining units, contract negotiations, legal oversight, and what it means for employees.
- Higher Education Employer-Employee Relations Act (HEERA). California law governing collective bargaining in higher education.
- Contact Labor Relations. For questions about representation process at UC Merced, reach out to the ELR team at laborrelations@ucmerced.edu.
Disclaimer: this information is provided by UC Merced for educational purposes to help employees understand the union representation process under HEERA. The University remains neutral and supports employees’ rights to choose whether or not to be represented by a union.
